Finding the perfect map is not always easy!  As a cartographer, map store owner and "map geek" to my friends, I was amazed how many thousands of different styles, sizes and prices could be found on eBay for just a simple world map.  Do you want a world map with blue oceans or antique tone oceans?  Do you want a world map that focuses on the physical features and topography or rather the political features and cities?  How about a world map that is current but looks antique....or maybe a world map from the 1600's that copied and reproduced last week on 36" printer....or maybe even an authentic world map from 1570 when map makers still though the world was flat (I hope your pockets are deep for this map).  Choices, choices and more choices.  Welcome to the map world of eBay :-)

Swiftmaps has worked with almost every map distributor and map manufacturer in the US and Europe over our past 20+ years in the map industry.  We are happy to share with you, the eBay community, our "approved" and recommended list for many current map products:

Recommended Map Manufacturers and Notes: 

Current World Maps & United States Maps (Wall Maps)

• Hammond Map / American Map Corporation (36" x 48" sizes)
• National Geographic (48" x 60" sizes)
• Notes: Any world map dated 2001 or newer is considered current since no world map changes have taken place since 2001.  We always recommed lamination to help preserve your map for a lifetime of enjoyment.  World and US maps are the most purchased maps on eBay!  Be careful before you purchase.  Many offer $1 and $2 maps that are very lacking in detail which is the most important part of the map.  A great test is checking the amount of city detail offered. If you have any questions about any map on eBay....just email us...we'll help you whether it is our product or anothers.  Helping the community is what makes us eBay's premier map shop year after year!

Approved Map Manufacturers: Continent/Country/Regional Map (Wall Maps)

• National Geographic
• Notes: Not much option for continent and country wall maps.  National Geographic is your best best for such maps.

World Globes:

• Replogle
• Cram
• Notes: See details above regarding world maps...world globes are similar...except round :-)

Travel Atlases and Paper Travel Maps & Guides:

• Hammond Map / American Map Corporation
• Rand McNally

Mapping and Topographic Software:

• National Geographic
• DeLorme

Antique Maps:

• Please note that there are two types of antique maps found on eBay.  There are originals, many of which are small and have been cut from a book style Atlas, a there are reproductions, which have been scanned and re-printed with today's technology.  Which is best for you???  Well, it really has to do with your taste and your pocketbook!  Probably 95% of all antique map purchases are reproductions and not originals.  If you are not a map collector, why spend the additional $$$ to have the original?  Most reproductions look just as good as the original....and even more so when properly matted and framed.  You make the choice.  You can have a 18" x 24" World Map reproduction by Blaeu, 1665,  for approximately $20.00 or possibly find an original for $500,000.00.  Oops, I think I just answered for you!  (this did auction for this a few years ago in England - not on eBay)

Hottest Map Product for 2005:

• World and US Map: Modern Day as Antique.  These maps have become the most successful product in years.  These maps are antique in tone but are current and up-to-date in detail and data.  From a distance they appear as antique but up close will disclose current mapping.  These have become a staple for family dens, libraries and many office and conference room walls.  We recently sold one of these to the White House.  Where is hangs?...who knows.  We are also now working with National Geographic to offer a continental Europe and Canada modern day antique in the coming months.  Europe should be available in early October.  The modern day antique style maps will prove to be a Christmas hit in 2005.

It is impossible to address everything in this quick buying guide, but I think it will help in your search.  Please feel free to contact us with any questions you might have.  We are a customer service oriented company and are all always there for our eBay community members. 

For almost 5 years now, Swiftmaps has become eBay's premier Map Store.  50% of all current World, United States, and Country/Regional wall maps are purchased through Swiftmaps auctions and their eBay Store.  With over a 1000 different maps and map related products, Swiftmaps has become a "one stop map shop" to the eBay community.   We have done so because we have over 20+ years experience in the map industry and are always there to answer any question and request by anyone in our eBay community.  Our motto, "if you can't find it, just ask..and we will do our best to find our route you to what you are looking for!"

Happy Trails,

Swiftmaps

"Your Worldwide Direction Connection"